CVE-2021-20470 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2021-20470 impacting IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0. Discover the security risks, impact, and mitigation steps for this medium severity vulnerability.
IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 are impacted by a vulnerability that allows attackers to compromise user accounts due to weak password requirements. This CVE was published on December 2, 2021.
Understanding CVE-2021-20470
This section will delve into the details of the CVE-2021-20470 vulnerability affecting IBM Cognos Analytics.
What is CVE-2021-20470?
IBM Cognos Analytics 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 do not enforce strong password policies by default, making it easier for malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to user accounts.
The Impact of CVE-2021-20470
The vulnerability poses a medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 5.9. Attackers can exploit this weakness to compromise the confidentiality of user data.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-20470
Let's explore the technical aspects of the CVE-2021-20470 vulnerability in IBM Cognos Analytics.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from the lack of strong password requirements in IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0, enabling attackers to more easily infiltrate user accounts.
Affected Systems and Versions
IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 are confirmed to be impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through network access, leading to potential compromise of highly confidential data.
Mitigation and Prevention
Discover the necessary steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-20470 in IBM Cognos Analytics.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should enforce strong password policies in IBM Cognos Analytics and consider additional security measures to protect user accounts.
Long-Term Security Practices
Establishing robust cybersecurity protocols and regular security assessments can help prevent unauthorized access and data breaches in the long run.
Patching and Updates
IBM has released an official fix for this vulnerability in Cognos Analytics. Ensure prompt installation of the security patch to safeguard your system.